While surveys show that more 24- to 34-year-olds are opting to live at home than ever before, it can be bittersweet for any parent to see their kids leave the nest. But you wouldn’t be alone in admitting a twinge of excitement at the potential for redecorating your new empty home.

“For years, as parents, we have sacrificed for our offspring, allowing our design decisions to be driven largely through the needs and functionality of our children,” says Melissa Rufty, an interior designer based in New Orleans.

Now that you have the house to yourself, however, it’s time to rethink those design choices. We got designers to weigh in with their best decorating tips to transform your empty nest into the stylish abode you've been dreaming of.

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Get on that clutter

“Having the house back to yourself is an opportunity to go through your space with a discerning eye and to purge what no longer gives you pleasure,” says designer Emma Lesser of Homepolish.

As tough as it may be to get rid of your kids’ old toys or clothes, the decision will help give your space a fresher look in the long-run. Pay special attention to spaces known to build up clutter, like mud rooms, closets and kitchen pantries. “It is always important to really focus on organizing these key areas, only keeping what is absolutely necessary,” adds Suzanne Kasler, an Atlanta-based interior designer.

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But don’t get rid of everything

Sure, it may not be an issue if your kids are grown and moved out, but for a child heading off to college, a total overhaul could be a bit jarring on their next visit home.

“The room should still feel welcoming to your offspring,” says designer Orlando Soria of Homepolish. Rather than redoing their room completely, start small by adding extra storage or a tiny art studio. "Once they've graduated from college you can go crazy and do whatever you want, but as long as they're in school they still need a place to come home to,” Soria adds.

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Think smaller

Now that your kids have moved out, that large scale seating area is starting to look less appealing. “I always suggest that clients rethink their large family room sofa sectionals,” says Emilie Munroe, an interior designer based in San Francisco. “It was wonderful when there was an entire kid's soccer team or a posse getting ready for high school prom, but now it's time to look at a more customized and cozy seating area.” Consider revising to one smaller sofa and two chic and comfy lounge chairs, Munroe suggests — a perfect combination for more intimate conversation.

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Add more plants

From plants that boost your mood to ones that help you sleep better, there are tons of benefits to having more greenery around the house. “From an aesthetic standpoint adding plants into your home is a wonderful way to add a pop of color and a beautiful burst of life,” Lesser says. But don’t worry if your green thumb is lacking. There are plants out there, like bromeliads and calathea, known to survive even the darkest corners.

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Take on that renovation

You’ve been saying for years how much you want to replace that tile in the bathroom. With the kids all moved out, there couldn’t be a more perfect time to start tackling your running list of home projects. “Now is the time to have that facelift you’ve been putting off,” Rufty says. "Not only will you directly benefit from these improvements, but you will add resale value to your house for if and when you downsize.”

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Add your own grown-up touches

Whether it’s a fresh coat of paint or simply updating your linens, small changes can go a long way in giving your space a fresh look (without breaking the bank on new furniture). Eve Robinson, an interior designer based in New York City, suggests reupholstering a sofa, adding new pillows or even replacing your kids’ artwork with more “grown-up” pieces. Another fun idea? “Outfit your cabinet as a bar, so that you can enjoy entertaining friends,” Robinson says. Cheers to that!

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Carve out a space for guests...

If you’re not quite ready to completely overhaul your child’s bedroom, why not have some fun sprucing it up? “Substitute their old twin bed for a queen, so that your grown-up child feels more comfortable when at home,” Robinson says. Another option: Substitute a sofa bed for your kid’s old bed and turn their bedroom into an office/den area. While they’re away, you could also utilize the space as a snazzy guest room for visiting family and friends (or if you’re daring, rent out on Airbnb). It’s a win-win!

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...Or for a new hobby

Always wanted a library or home gym? No need to let your kids’ bedrooms or playrooms sit empty. Converting them into the space you’ve always dreamed of could be a good way to help ease your transition into empty nest mode. “When you fill your vacancy with hobbies and new life, your home won’t feel so empty,” Rufty says.

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Lighten up

Less is more sometimes. In fact, a coat of white paint could be just the change to help reinvigorate your space. “Painting a room white immediately creates a more modern look,” Kasler says. “The room becomes like a canvas and when you layer pieces in they have a stronger impact.” You could also opt for white furniture. “While a white sofa or light colored rug may have been way too risky in the past, this is the time to go for it,” Lesser adds.

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Stop thinking so practical

With kids at home, it’s understandable you would value function over style for fear of spills or everyday wear and tear. But consider your empty nest an excuse to invest in that statement piece you’ve always wanted. “Splurge on those long coveted fabrics or rugs that you’ve shied away from in the name of practicality,” Rufty says. “Live a little…you’ve earned it! Another upside: You can unload your old furniture pieces on your kids, who may be looking for inexpensive items to fill out their own starter apartment.

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